The Louisiana Board of Ethics, at its July 15, 2011 meeting, considered your request for an advisory opinion as to whether the Village of Tickfaw can pay the expenses for the spouse of the mayor or other person who is attending a meeting or convention for the town, and if there is a certain per diem requirement that the town can use to implement a per diem policy.

The Board concluded, and instructed me to inform you, that the above mentioned questions do not present Ethics Code issues. However, the questions appear to be issues concerning the proper use of public funds, which is the under the jurisdiction of the Attorney General’s Office.

This advisory opinion is based solely on the facts as set forth herein. Changes to the facts presented may result in a different application of the provisions of the Code of Ethics. The Board issues no opinion as to past conduct or laws other than Code of Governmental Ethics. If you have any questions, please contact me at (225) 219-5600 or (800) 842-6630.